Microneedling is the practice of inserting very fine needles into the skin to create controlled injury to further promote skin rejuvenation and repair.  While it has been around since the 90s, it has only recently gained traction thanks to the help of social media.  

How does it work? 
Each treatment begins with a numbing cream applied to a cleansed face, followed by a repairing serum. The microneedling pen is moved back and forth across the face helping skin to further absorb the serum. After the treatment is completed, more serum is applied, followed by a mask to seal in all nutrients. 

The miniscule trauma caused by these needles sends signals to the body to send collagen and elastin to the area to repair it. This stimulus in production causes skin to look tighter and more youthful. The rush of collagen is also good for treating a variety of conditions such as acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, large pores, loose or textured skin, brown spots, stretch marks, pigment issues, and it can even stimulate hair growth. 

How can I get treatment? 
The sessions generally occur once a month and are performed on an as-needed basis. While just 2-3 sessions will be recommended for some, 4-6 will be recommended for those needing a bit more. As the skin becomes thicker and develops a better tolerance, longer needles are used to stimulate even more production. After obtaining desired results, it is recommended to continue treatments once a year for maintenance.  

What is a derma roller?
A mini wheel covered in tiny needles, derma rollers are the at-home version of microneedling. For safety reasons, they don’t penetrate the skin as deeply as their professional counterpart, which doesn’t allow them to stimulate collagen production. While this makes them less effective than going to your dermatologist, they are still a great way to get products to better absorb and penetrate the skin. 

What else should I know? 
Cleanliness is very important when it comes to microneedling, especially because there is a possibility of drawing blood. To lower the risk of infection, make sure both your face and tool have been cleansed beforehand. While typically minimally invasive, it is important to note that the treatment could cause bleeding, bruising, scarring or darkening of skin if done incorrectly. 

Those suffering from breakouts, sunburn, warts,eczema, psoriasis or have a history of blood clots will want to refrain. It is also recommended to not take aspirin or blood thinners or use retinol, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid around the time of use to avoid adverse reactions. 

How does it compare to the Deminuage NanoPen Prime and Lux? 
Deminuage’s revolutionary QuickPore technology has created a painless, less invasive alternative to the derma roller that eliminates all risk of bleeding, bruising, or scarring of skin. Through the creation of reversible microscopic absorption channels in the outermost layer of skin, both the NanoPen Prime and Lux instantly increase the effectiveness of serums and facial products. These temporary channels then automatically close within 30 minutes of use to restore skin’s natural protection. 

While the NanoPens don’t stimulate collagen and elastin growth like a professional microneedling appointment would, Deminuage is a great alternative to at-home Dermaroller treatments. If you’re interested in incorporating the NanoPen Prime or Lux into your daily routine, get more information here.